Part of the joy of Latino cuisine is the mouthwatering array of desserts it offers. Whether you enjoy something sweet and creamy or rich and flaky, you can find a dish that will please your tastebuds. Below is an introduction to some of the most popular Latin desserts.

4 Popular Desserts Available in Latino Cuisine

1. Flan

Flan is a traditional baked custard dessert made of eggs, milk, and sugar. It features a fluffy body covered in sweet caramel or dulce de leche. Its name derives from a medieval Latin term, "flado," which means flat cake. It is similar in appearance and consistency to cheesecake. Some establishments offer fruit flans, which are topped with berries and sliced tropical fruits. 

2. Churros

A churro is a pastry of fried and sweetened dough sprinkled with sugar. It originated in medieval Spain and Portugal and spread throughout the world as the two countries colonized. Some pastries are long, thin, and knotted before being fried, while others are thicker and chewier. They are often eaten as a dessert or for breakfast, often with hot chocolate or sweet coffee and cream.

3. Arroz Con Leche

Arroz con Leche, which translates to "rice with milk," is a type of rice pudding served in Central and South America. In Dominican culture, it features rice mixed with milk, flavored with sugar, lemon zest, cinnamon, and raisins. In other cultures, flavorings include anise, vanilla, and pineapple.

4. Dulce de Leche

Dulce de leche is a caramel-like confection made by slowly simmering and stirring milk and sugar for an hour or more until the concoction thickens and darkens. It’s used as a topping for cookies, cakes, flan, churros, crepes, and ice creams. 

To enjoy a night of Latino cuisine with drinks and desserts, head to Mamajuana Cafe Queens, a popular Dominican restaurant  in Woodside, NY. They serve traditional Latin food for dinner and lunch, including quesadillas, ceviche, and chicharrones. After eating a delicious, savory meal, top it off with a sweet dessert, such as flan. Check out the menu on their website or call (718) 565-6454 to make a reservation.